Governor Ortom Sorrowfully Cries Out Over Freezing Of Its Account By EFCC

The Government of Benue State has portrayed the solidifying of its account by the Economic
and Financial Crimes Commission as political witch-chase.

The State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mike Gusa, said the state government had gone to challenge the case in court.

He stated, "Truly, beyond any doubt the account of the Benue State Government have been freezed by the EFCC. It is a piece of the political witch-chase against Governor Samuel Ortom. The activity of the EFCC is as of now negatively affecting the running of government in Benue State.
“It is a move that will affect salaries, pensions, and other sundry payments.

“The question we are asking is; why did the EFCC not investigate the Governor’s security votes when he was still a member of the APC? Why start the investigation now?

“EFCC should not allow itself to be used as an attack dog unleashed against perceived political opponents.

“Let the Federal Government tell us how much it has spent on prosecuting the fight against Boko Haram and how much it spent on the other operations such as Python Dance, Crocodile Smile, and Whirl Stroke.

“Benue has suffered heavy attacks by Fulani herdsmen since the beginning of the year. Within the period, the State Government has spent a lot to legitimately support security agencies to protect the people of the state. Governor Ortom has not diverted funds. He runs a transparent administration.

“We welcome the investigation, but as I said earlier, it should start from the Presidency and go across the 36 states. Benue should not be singled out for victimization, intimidation, and harassment as the Federal Government with its agencies are currently doing.”

The EFCC had frozen the five bank accounts belonging to Benue State Government. It said it was investigating the state governor, permanent secretaries and state lawmakers over misappropriation of N22 billion.